Experienced Dog Bite Attorneys Serving Twin Falls, Idaho
If you or a loved one has suffered a dog bite in Twin Falls, Idaho, The Law Firm of Johnson & Lundgreen is ready to help you pursue justice. Idaho’s dog bite laws require proof of negligence in most cases, but our attorneys have the local knowledge and legal experience to build strong claims. Our Twin Falls personal injury attorneys help clients recover compensation for medical expenses, lost income, emotional trauma, and more, often through insurance. Time is limited under Idaho law, so it’s important to act quickly to protect your rights.
Why Choose The Law Firm of Johnson & Lundgreen?
At Johnson & Lundgreen, we are committed to helping injury victims throughout Idaho, including those in Twin Falls, recover the compensation they deserve. With decades of combined experience and a deep understanding of Idaho’s legal landscape, we know how to handle complex dog bite cases.
- Over 50 years of combined personal injury experience
- A designated civil trial specialist on our team
- Local attorneys familiar with Twin Falls courts and ordinances
- No legal fees unless we win your case
- Proven success in thousands of liability and insurance disputes
- Direct access to your attorney—no gatekeepers
- Compassionate, client-focused representation from start to finish
Can I Still File a Claim If the Dog Had Never Bitten Before?
Yes, you may still have a valid claim. Idaho follows the “one-bite rule,” meaning a dog owner may not be automatically liable for a first bite. However, if the owner was negligent, such as ignoring signs of aggression, violating leash laws, or failing to restrain the dog, you may still recover damages.
In Twin Falls, local ordinances require dogs to be leashed and limit the number of dogs per household. Violations of these rules can support a negligence claim. Additionally, if the dog was previously classified as “dangerous” or “at-risk” under Idaho Code § 25-2810, the owner may be liable regardless of prior bites.
Our attorneys investigate the dog’s behavior history, obtain animal control records, and interview witnesses to determine whether you have a viable claim. Don’t assume you’re without options just because the dog had no prior incidents.
How Long Do I Have to File a Dog Bite Lawsuit in Idaho?
Under Idaho Code § 5-219, most dog bite victims have two years from the date of the incident to file a personal injury lawsuit. There are exceptions. If the victim is a minor, the deadline may be extended. However, it’s still important to act quickly. Evidence can be lost, memories fade, and insurance companies may use delays to deny or reduce your claim.
At Johnson & Lundgreen, we act fast to preserve your rights. From notifying insurers to collecting medical and animal control records, we take immediate steps to strengthen your case.
Can a Property Owner Be Held Liable for a Dog Bite?
Yes. In some cases, the property owner where the bite occurred may share liability, especially if they knew the dog was dangerous and failed to take precautions. This is known as premises liability.
For example, if you were bitten at someone’s home or rental property, and the property owner allowed a dangerous dog on the premises without proper restraints or warnings, they may be held responsible. This can open the door to compensation through homeowner’s or landlord insurance policies.
Our legal team investigates all potential sources of liability to maximize your recovery. We examine whether the property owner had prior knowledge of the dog’s behavior, whether local laws were followed, and whether reasonable safety measures were in place.
What Types of Compensation Can I Recover After a Dog Bite?
Dog bite victims in Idaho may be eligible for compensation covering a wide range of damages, depending on the severity of the injury and the circumstances of the attack. These may include:
- Medical expenses (emergency care, surgery, rehabilitation)
- Lost wages or diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress, including anxiety or PTSD
- Permanent scarring or disfigurement
- Nerve, tendon, or muscle damage
There is no set formula for calculating damages. Your recovery depends on the strength of your evidence, medical documentation, and the ability to prove negligence or strict liability. Our attorneys work closely with your healthcare providers and insurance companies to ensure your losses are fully documented and aggressively pursued.
What Happens When I Contact Johnson & Lundgreen?
When you reach out to our Twin Falls office, you’ll speak directly with an experienced attorney, not just a case manager. We begin with a free consultation to evaluate your case, answer your questions, and explain your legal options.
If we take your case, we work on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing unless we win. We’ll immediately begin gathering evidence, contacting insurers, and coordinating with local animal control if needed. While many cases settle out of court, we prepare every case as if it will go to trial.
You’ll be kept informed throughout the process, and we’ll fight to secure the compensation you deserve.
Speak With a Twin Falls Dog Bite Lawyer Today
If you or your child has been bitten by a dog in Twin Falls, don’t delay. The sooner you act, the stronger your case will be. Contact The Law Firm of Johnson & Lundgreen today for a free consultation. We’re local, experienced, and ready to advocate for you.
FAQ About Dog Bite Claims in Twin Falls
What if the dog bite caused an infection or required ongoing treatment?
Infections and long-term medical issues are common after dog bites. You may be entitled to compensation for all related care, including antibiotics, wound treatment, and follow-up visits. We work with your medical providers to document these costs and include them in your claim.
Can I file a claim if my child was bitten by a dog?
Yes. Idaho law allows parents to file claims on behalf of their children. The statute of limitations may also be extended for minors, but early legal action is still important to preserve evidence and build a strong case.
Will insurance cover my dog bite claim?
Most dog bite claims are paid through the dog owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance. In some cases, a property owner’s insurance may also apply. We handle all communication with insurers and fight for the maximum compensation available.